Block 8 & 11 Section 24 City – New Acton - Installation of a ‘Pop-Up’ Style Outlet

The National Capital Authority (NCA) has prepared a Consultation Report for Works Approval application 19943 (WA19943).

On 21 May 2015, the NCA received a Works Approval application from Acton Developments for the installation of a 'Pop-Up' style retail outlet within the John Avery Gardens at New Acton.

The Report was prepared in accordance with the NCA's 'Commitment to Community Engagement (February 2015)' which details how the NCA conducts consultation. The full consultation report is below.

Purpose of Report

The purpose of the report is to provide a greater level of consistency and transparency in the NCA's decision making process. The Consultation Report outlines the submissions received and provides responses to any of the issues raised. Public consultation took place between 3 August 2015 and 21 August 2015.

Comments

The NCA received 31 written submission during the consultation period.

Key issues raised in the submissions of support were:

1. The proposal will enrich the culture and diversify the mixed use precinct with minimal impact on surrounding residences and the site
2. The proposal will contribute positively to the amenity of New Acton and benefit residents
3. The proposal will support the use of cycling
4. The use of a modified shipping container reflects a modern ethos for the reuse of objects
5. The proposal is well designed, executed with quality and will blend with the overall design aesthetic and character of New Acton.
6. Landscape work commenced on site during the public consultation period, and the consultation process appeared disingenuous.

Key issues raised in the submissions of objection were:

1. The proposal will result in the loss of part of a highly utilised green space within the New Acton precinct
2. Lack of consideration for alternative sites
3. The proposal will impact on the amenity of residents in adjacent apartments and the overall amenity of the gardens and surrounding areas 
4. The use of a modified shipping container for the retail outlet is not considered an appropriate design and quality for the subject site
5. The proposal will increase bicycle traffic
6. Concern about encroachment into the John Avery Gardens and Kendall Lane 
7. There is no confidence in the operators to show regard for their neighbours or visitors to the area in operating the business
8. There are no significant changes to the new application.

68 people provided comments on the NCA’s website. All 68 were in support of the proposal. The majority of comments submitted on the website related directly to the Goodspeed business and opportunities for small businesses and bicycle use. Other key issues raised were that the proposal would activate and diversify the precinct, and that it is in keeping with the sustainable and aesthetic ambitions of the area. 

Outcome

On 21 August 2015, granted temporary works approval to the application, to gain a better understanding on potential long term positive or negative impacts to the precinct.  Permanent approval would be subject to a new works approval application. 

Further Information

For further information, please contact the Works Approvals Team on worksapproval@nca.gov.au or by phone 6271 2888.